Quiet by Madison Cawein (1907)
The poem presents a serene and contemplative scene set in a secluded log-hut, surrounded by nature. The speaker describes the contrasting elements of the environment: the shadowy woods and the sunlit heath. The arrival of morning is personified as a gentle figure, bringing light and hope, symbolized by the key to the sun. This figure inspires the speaker to embrace the day's labor with love and positivity, despite the challenges represented by the rough road. As day transitions to dusk, the atmosphere shifts to one of solitude and reflection. The speaker hears a distant voice reminiscent of a whippoorwill, signaling the approach of night. The imagery of a star on the brow of night suggests a mystical quality, as the speaker anticipates the presence of this ethereal figure until dawn. The eyes of this figure are described as deep and dark, evoking a sense of mystery and connection to a dreamlike realm. Overall, the work explores themes of solitude, the beauty of nature, and the interplay between light and darkness, while emphasizing the emotional and spiritual connection between the speaker and the personified elements of day and night. The imagery evokes a tranquil yet profound experience, inviting readers to reflect on their own relationship with nature and the passage of time.
By Madison Cawein · First published 1907 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Nature Poetry, Romanticism · 241 words
First lines
A log-hut in the solitude, A clapboard roof to rest beneath! This side, the shadow-haunted wood; That side, the sunlight-haunted heath.
At daybreak Morn shall come to me In raiment of the white winds spun; Slim in her rosy hand the key That opes the gateway of the sun.
Her smile shall help my heart enough With love to labor all the day, And cheer the road, whose rocks are rough, With her smooth footprints, each a ray.
At dusk a voice shall call afar, A lone voice like the whippoorwill's; And, on her shimmering brow one star, Night shall descend the western hills.
What this Textopian page supports
Quiet is listed on Textopian as a poem by Madison Cawein, dated 1907 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Madison Cawein
- Date: 1907 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Lyric Poetry, Nature Poetry, Romanticism, Symbolism, Imagism
- Length: 241 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Lyric Poetry — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Nature Poetry — The imagery and themes revolve around nature, solitude, and the beauty of the natural world.
- Romanticism — The poem reflects Romantic ideals, focusing on emotion, nature, and individual experience.
- Symbolism — The use of symbols, such as the key and the star, conveys deeper meanings and themes.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Solitude · Quietism · Meditation · Reflection · Philosophy · Existentialism · Self-Discovery · Inner Peace · Mindfulness · Spirituality